Kraków on a Budget: 4-Day Adventure Guide

Discover the charm of Kraków without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Kraków offers a variety of affordable options for budget travelers. Visitors can explore the charming Old Town, including the stunning Wawel Castle and Main Market Square, without spending a lot of money. Budget-friendly restaurants and hostels are plentiful, allowing visitors to experience the city's rich culture without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Old City

  • Check-in at the easyHotel Kraków, a budget-friendly hotel in the heart of the city
  • Start the day with a stroll through the stunning Main Market Square, marveling at the Renaissance architecture
  • Visit the Wawel Castle, the former residence of Polish kings and now one of the country's top tourist attractions
  • Head to the colorful Kazimierz district, once the center of Jewish life in Poland, and explore the charming streets and hidden courtyards
  • End the day with a traditional Polish meal at the historic restaurant Wierzynek, where kings once dined
Day 2

Discovering Kraków's Culture

  • Begin the day with a visit to the iconic St. Mary's Basilica, one of the city's most recognizable landmarks
  • Explore the underground salt mines of Wieliczka, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Visit the art museum MOCAK, home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from Polish and international artists
  • Enjoy an evening stroll along the Vistula River, taking in the colorful sunset over the city
  • Dine at Pod Aniołami, a restaurant serving traditional Polish cuisine with a modern twist
Day 3

Day Tripping to Auschwitz-Birkenau

  • Take a somber but necessary trip to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, paying respects to the millions who tragically lost their lives during World War II
  • Learn about the atrocities committed under Nazi rule and the stories of heroic individuals who resisted
  • Return to Kraków for a peaceful evening in the city, perhaps with a visit to the Kraków Philharmonic for a classical music concert
  • Dine at Szara Gęś, a restaurant serving hearty, homemade Polish dishes made with locally sourced ingredients
Day 4

Getting Active in Nature

  • Take a day trip to Zakopane, a charming mountain town located in the Tatra Mountains
  • Go hiking in the scenic Tatras National Park, marveling at the stunning scenery and picturesque views
  • Take a dip in one of the many thermal baths or hot springs scattered throughout the area
  • Indulge in traditional Zakopane-style food, such as oscypek (smoked cheese) or kwaśnica (sauerkraut and sausage stew)
  • Return to Kraków for a final evening, perhaps with a night at the theater or a local comedy club before departing the following day.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Kraków, Poland by plane is to fly into John Paul II International Airport Kraków-Balice, which is located about 11 kilometers from the city center.

Car

The best way to get to Kraków, Poland by car is to follow the A4 motorway, which connects the city with other major Polish cities such as Warsaw and Wrocław. It's worth noting that parking in the city center can be difficult and expensive, so it's recommended to park outside the city and use public transportation to get around.

Train

Kraków has its own train station, Kraków Główny, which is located in the city center and is well-connected with other major Polish cities such as Warsaw and Gdańsk.

Boat

Kraków is not accessible by boat as it is located inland and does not have any navigable rivers or canals. The closest port city is Gdańsk, which is located on the Baltic Sea and can be reached by ferry or cruise ship.

Bus

The best way to get to Kraków, Poland by bus is to take one of the many domestic or international bus services that arrive at Kraków Bus Station. The station is located close to the city center and is well-served by local transportation.

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